General Counsel

About This Role

Guiding Mott Community College through the complex legal landscape of higher education is the core of this executive position. The General Counsel acts as the chief legal strategist and senior advisor on all legal matters, ensuring compliance and safeguarding the institution's integrity and reputation. This role demands a collaborative and experienced legal expert who can navigate myriad legal challenges, providing innovative solutions while fostering a culture of compliance and ethical decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Steer MCC through the complex legal landscape of higher education
• Ensure compliance and safeguard the institution’s integrity and reputation
• Navigate legal challenges ranging from regulatory compliance, labor and employment issues, litigation, contract law, governance, and policy development
• Shape legal and policy decisions that influence MCC’s strategic direction and operational effectiveness
• Provide innovative solutions to complex legal issues
• Foster a culture of compliance and ethical decision-making across MCC
• Supervise a paralegal/administrative assistant
• Oversee the work of work-study students and/or temporary employees involved in legal projects

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Minimum 15 years of progressive legal experience, with at least 10 years of employment and labor law experience
• Must be licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
• Proven leadership skills in managing complex legal issues, preferably in a dynamic academic environment
• Demonstrated legal technology (LegalTech) competencies including knowledge of legal research platforms, e-discovery tools, cybersecurity awareness, data analytics, and awareness of AI in legal practice
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time
• Ability to move about both inside the office and at other locations where interviews and meetings are conducted
• Frequently operate a computer for extended periods of time
• Frequently communicate with others over the phone and in person; must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations
• Ability to speak clearly and communicate proficiently in English

Nice to have:

• Experience in higher education law or a related field

Important Details

• Schedule: Full-time
• Application deadline: Open until filled

Application Process

• First consideration given to internal candidates
• Degree must be conferred by either offer date or close of posting